music staff

Steve Thorp - Director of Music Ministries

Michelle Olson - Organist

Kara Heimark - Director of Wesley Singers & Ring On! Handbell Choir

Pastor Tina Cross - Director of Preschool Praise Choir

music

The Ministry of Music at First United Methodist Church strives to glorify God in worship, minister to its members in ways that enable both musical and spiritual growth, and provide quality musical events for the entertainment and inspiration of the community of Roswell. With the Chancel Choir, Wesley Singers, Ring On!, Preschool Praise Choir, and the Kaler Bell Choir. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, vocal choirs will not meet. As restrictions ease, choirs will resume accordingly with the exception of Kaler Bells Adult Handbell Choir. They meet weekly following COVID Safe precautions.

  • Kaler bells

    The Kaler Bell Choir, named to honor former Director of Music, Ralph Kaler, plays a variety of sacred pieces in worship throughout the year on the church’s 4-octave sets of handbells and choirchimes®. Under the direction of Steve Thorp, the ensemble meets in the Sanctuary, from September through May. In addition to performing in worship, the ensemble presents a Christmas Concert/Ring-a-Long, a Spring Concert/Ring-a-Long and plays at the annual Salute to Veterans Program. The ability to read music, especially rhythmic notation is very helpful. Contact Steve Thorp for more information. Kaler Bells meet Wednesdays at 6PM.

  • chancel choir

    First Church’s Chancel Choir is one of the finest in Eastern New Mexico. Under the direction of Steve Thorp, the choir rehearses weekly then assists, and leads worship every Sunday from September through May.  Major choral works, anthems, and a variety of hymns are sung.  The only requirement to join the Chancel Choir is a love of singing and a commitment to serve God.  Contact Steve Thorp for more information.

  • wesley singers

    The Wesley Singers is for elementary-aged children. Under the direction of Kara Heimark, the choir meets weekly, during the school year, in Room 114. The children sing in worship on a regular basis as well as the Christmas Eve Candlelight service. The Wesley Singers also go to the homes of shut-in members and sing Christmas carols. 

  • Ring on!

    The Ring On! Handchime Choir is also for elementary-aged children. This choir is under the direction of Kara Heimark and meets weekly during the school year. The children learn how to ring handchimes, bells and other rhythm instruments. They also play during worship services and special events.

  • Preschool praise

    Preschool Praise choir is for children ages 3-Pre-Kindergarten. Led by Pastor Tina Cross, the preschool choir meets weekly, throughout the school year, in Room 103. A variety of games, songs and other musical activities are designed to help the children learn to work within a group setting and use music to praise God. The children sing in worship 4-5 times during the year.  For more information, contact Pastor Tina.